Barbell

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application is a nonprovisional of, and claims priority to and the benefit of, U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/670,566, filed Jul. 12, 2024, which prior application is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This disclosure relates to weightlifting barbells and sleeve assemblies therefor, and more specifically to a barbell and sleeve assembly with an improved securing configuration.

BACKGROUND

Numerous configurations of barbell sleeves and barbell sleeve assemblies are known in the art of weightlifting barbells, which utilize various connection techniques for connection to the end of a bar. Many such sleeves are freely rotatable with respect to the bar and may include components such as bearings and/or bushings to facilitate rotation. Typically, such barbell sleeve assemblies are connected to the distal end of the bar by using one or more retaining and/or rotation-facilitating components within the cavity of the sleeve. However, some connecting structures for barbell sleeves suffer from problems such as complicated assembly, floating of components, lack of smooth sleeve rotation, rattling or other noise, and lack of durability. Accordingly, there is a need for a barbell sleeve assembly with an improved mounting structure.

The present disclosure is provided to address this need and other needs in existing barbells and sleeve assemblies therefor. A full discussion of the features and advantages of the present invention is deferred to the following detailed description, which proceeds with reference to the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF SUMMARY

General aspects of the present disclosure relate to barbells having sleeve assemblies configured with features that provide smooth and free rotation of the sleeves with respect to the bar, outstanding durability, lack of floating or other unintended relative movement between components, and ease of assembly.

Aspects of the disclosure relate to a barbell including a bar having opposed first and second end portions spaced from each other along an axial direction, a first sleeve assembly connected to the first end portion of the bar, and a second sleeve assembly connected to the second end portion of the bar. The first end portion of the bar has a first annular slot located axially inward from a first end of the bar and a first head portion extending from the first annular slot to the first end of the bar, and the second end portion of the bar has a second annular slot located axially inward from a second end of the bar and a second head portion extending from the second annular slot to the second end of the bar. The first sleeve assembly includes a first sleeve having a first axial bore receiving the first end portion and a first connection assembly for connecting the first sleeve to the first end portion, with the first axial bore having a first annular abutment surface formed by a change in inner diameter of the first axial bore. The first connection assembly includes a first split ring positioned around the first end portion of the bar and having a first semi-annular piece and a second semi-annular piece both received within the first annular slot, a first proximal washer positioned around the first end portion of the bar and axially inward from the first split ring, the first proximal washer axially engaging an inward axial side of the first split ring and axially engaging the first annular abutment surface, and a first distal washer positioned around the first end portion of the bar and axially outward from the first split ring, the first distal washer axially engaging an outward axial side of the first split ring. The first connection assembly also includes a first annular member extending circumferentially around the first split ring and radially retaining the first and second semi-annular pieces of the first split ring within the first annular slot, and a first retaining member positioned axially outward from the first distal washer and axially engaging the first distal washer and an inner surface of the first axial bore, such that the first proximal washer, the first distal washer, the first annular member, and the first split ring are axially fixed between the first annular abutment surface and the first retaining member. The second sleeve assembly includes a second sleeve having a second axial bore receiving the second end portion and a second connection assembly for connecting the second sleeve to the second end portion, with the second axial bore having a second annular abutment surface formed by a change in inner diameter of the second axial bore. The second connection assembly includes a second split ring positioned around the second end portion of the bar and having a third semi-annular piece and a fourth semi-annular piece both received within the second annular slot, a second proximal washer positioned around the second end portion of the bar and axially inward from the second split ring, the second proximal washer axially engaging an inward axial side of the second split ring and axially engaging the second annular abutment surface, and a second distal washer positioned around the second end portion of the bar and axially outward from the second split ring, the second distal washer axially engaging an outward axial side of the second split ring. The second connection assembly also includes a second annular member extending circumferentially around the second split ring and radially retaining the third and fourth semi-annular pieces of the second split ring within the second annular slot, and a second retaining member positioned axially outward from the second distal washer and axially engaging the second distal washer and an inner surface of the second axial bore such that the second proximal washer, the second distal washer, the second annular member, and the second split ring are axially fixed between the second annular abutment surface and the second retaining member.

According to one aspect, the first annular member is formed by a first annular flange of the first proximal washer extending axially outward from the first proximal washer and around the first split ring, such that the first proximal washer is a first cup-shaped member defining a first cavity receiving the first split ring therein, and the second annular member is formed by a second annular flange of the second proximal washer extending axially outward from the second proximal washer and around the second split ring, such that the second proximal washer is a second cup-shaped member defining a second cavity receiving the second split ring therein.

According to another aspect, the first retaining member is a first snap ring positioned in a first annular groove on the inner surface of the first axial bore, and the second retaining member is a second snap ring positioned in a second annular groove on the inner surface of the second axial bore.

According to a further aspect, the first sleeve assembly further includes a first end cap removably secured to the first sleeve and covering a first distal opening of the first sleeve, and the second sleeve assembly further includes a second end cap removably secured to the second sleeve and covering a second distal opening of the second sleeve.

According to yet another aspect, the first sleeve assembly further includes a first distal bearing having a first inner race engaged with the bar, a first outer race engaged with the inner surface of the first axial bore, and a plurality of first roller bodies between the first inner race and the first outer race, and the second sleeve assembly further includes a second distal bearing having a second inner race engaged with the bar, a second outer race engaged with the inner surface of the second axial bore, and a plurality of second roller bodies between the second inner race and the second outer race. The first distal bearing of the first sleeve assembly is positioned axially inward of the first connection assembly, and the second distal bearing of the second sleeve assembly is positioned axially inward of the second connection assembly. In one aspect, the first distal bearing may have a first distal side axially abutting the first proximal washer and a proximal side axially abutting a first spacer engaged with the inner surface of the first axial bore to retain the first distal bearing in place, and the second distal bearing may have a second distal side axially abutting the second proximal washer and a proximal side axially abutting a second spacer engaged with the inner surface of the second axial bore to retain the second distal bearing in place. In another aspect, the first roller bodies and the second roller bodies may be needle roller bodies. In a further aspect, the first annular member may be formed by a first annular flange of the first proximal washer extending axially outward from the first proximal washer and around the first split ring, such that the first proximal washer is a first cup-shaped member defining a first cavity receiving the first split ring therein, and the second annular member may be formed by a second annular flange of the second proximal washer extending axially outward from the second proximal washer and around the second split ring, such that the second proximal washer is a second cup-shaped member defining a second cavity receiving the second split ring therein.

Additional aspects of the disclosure relate to a barbell including a bar having opposed end portions spaced from each other along an axial direction, each of the end portions having an annular slot having a reduced diameter and extending around the end portion, and a head portion extending from the annular slot to a distal end of the bar, and a pair of sleeve assemblies connected to the end portions of the bar. Each of the sleeve assemblies includes a sleeve having an axial bore receiving a respective one of the end portions of the bar and a connection assembly for connecting the sleeve to the respective one of the end portions of the bar. The connection assembly of each of the sleeve assembly includes a split ring having a first semi-annular piece and a second semi-annular piece received within the annular slot, a proximal washer positioned axially inward from the split ring and engaging an inward axial side of the split ring, and a distal washer positioned axially outward from the split ring, around the head portion of the end portion of the bar, the distal washer engaging an outward axial side of the split ring. Each connection assembly also includes an annular member extending circumferentially around the split ring and radially retaining the first and second semi-annular pieces within the annular slot, and a retaining member positioned axially outward from the distal washer and axially engaging the distal washer and an inner surface of the axial bore to retain the proximal washer, the distal washer, the annular member, and the split ring in connection with the bar and the sleeve.

According to one aspect, each annular member is formed by an annular flange of the proximal washer extending axially outward from the proximal washer and around the split ring, such that the proximal washer is a cup-shaped member defining a cavity receiving the split ring therein.

According to another aspect, the retaining member of each sleeve assembly is a snap ring positioned in an annular groove on the inner surface of the axial bore.

According to a further aspect, each sleeve assembly further comprises an end cap removably secured to the sleeve and covering a distal opening of the sleeve.

According to yet another aspect, each sleeve assembly further comprises a distal bearing having an inner race engaged with the bar, an outer race engaged with the inner surface of the axial bore, and a plurality of roller bodies between the inner and outer races, wherein the distal bearing of each sleeve assembly is positioned axially inward of the connection assembly. In one aspect, the distal bearing of each sleeve assembly has a distal side axially abutting the proximal washer and a proximal side operably engaging an abutment surface of the axial bore to retain the distal bearing in place. In this configuration, each sleeve assembly may further include a spacer abutting the abutment surface and the proximal side of the distal bearing. In another aspect, the distal bearing of each sleeve assembly has a distal side and a proximal side, where the proximal washer axially abuts the distal side of the distal bearing and a first abutment surface of the axial bore, and the proximal side of the distal bearing operably engages a second abutment surface of the axial bore to retain the distal bearing in place.

According to a still further aspect, each sleeve assembly has an abutment surface abutting a proximal side of the proximal washer, such that the proximal washer, the split ring, the distal washer, and the annular member are axially fixed between the abutment surface and the retaining member.

Further aspects of the disclosure relate to a barbell including a bar having opposed first and second end portions spaced from each other along an axial direction, a first sleeve assembly rotatably connected to the first end portion of the bar, and a second sleeve assembly rotatably connected to the second end portion of the bar. The first sleeve assembly includes a first sleeve having a first axial bore receiving the first end portion, the first axial bore having a first proximal opening receiving the first end portion of the bar therethrough, where the first sleeve has a first proximal abutment surface on an inner surface of the first axial bore located axially distal from the first proximal opening and formed by a first change in an inner diameter of the first axial bore, such that a first section of the first axial bore extends from the first proximal opening to the first proximal abutment surface, and a first distal abutment surface on the inner surface of the first axial bore located axially distal from the first proximal abutment surface and formed by a second change in an inner diameter of the first axial bore, such that a second section of the first axial bore extends from the first proximal abutment surface to the first distal abutment surface, and where the second section of the first axial bore has a smaller diameter than the first section. The first sleeve assembly also includes a first proximal bearing positioned in the second section of the first axial bore and having a first inner race engaged with the bar, a first outer race engaged with the inner surface of the first axial bore, and a plurality of first roller bodies between the first inner race and the first outer race, a first seal holder, and a first dust seal connected to the first seal holder and engaging the bar to resist ingress of dust between the first seal holder and the bar. The first seal holder is positioned in the first section of the first axial bore and axially abuts the first proximal abutment surface, and the first seal holder covers the first proximal opening and has a first passage receiving the bar therethrough. The second sleeve assembly includes a second sleeve having a second axial bore receiving the second end portion, the second axial bore having a second proximal opening receiving the second end portion of the bar therethrough, where the second sleeve has a second proximal abutment surface on an inner surface of the second axial bore located axially distal from the second proximal opening and formed by a first change in an inner diameter of the second axial bore, such that a first section of the second axial bore extends from the second proximal opening to the second proximal abutment surface, and a second distal abutment surface on the inner surface of the second axial bore located axially distal from the second proximal abutment surface and formed by a second change in an inner diameter of the second axial bore, such that a second section of the second axial bore extends from the second proximal abutment surface to the second distal abutment surface, and the second section of the second axial bore has a smaller diameter than the first section. The second sleeve assembly also includes a second proximal bearing positioned in the second section of the second axial bore and having a second inner race engaged with the bar, a second outer race engaged with the inner surface of the second axial bore, and a plurality of second roller bodies between the second inner race and the second outer race, a second seal holder, and a second dust seal connected to the second seal holder and engaging the bar to resist ingress of dust between the second seal holder and the bar. The second seal holder is positioned in the first section of the second axial bore and axially abuts the second proximal abutment surface, and the second seal holder covers the second proximal opening and has a second passage receiving the bar therethrough.

According to one aspect, the first sleeve assembly also includes a third proximal bearing positioned in the second section of the first axial bore adjacent to the first proximal bearing, and having a third inner race engaged with the bar, a third outer race engaged with the inner surface of the first axial bore, and a plurality of third roller bodies between the third inner race and the third outer race. Additionally, the second sleeve assembly also includes a fourth proximal bearing positioned in the second section of the second axial bore adjacent to the second proximal bearing, and having a fourth inner race engaged with the bar, a fourth outer race engaged with the inner surface of the second axial bore, and a plurality of fourth roller bodies between the fourth inner race and the fourth outer race. In one aspect, the first proximal bearing has a distal side operably engaged with the first distal abutment surface, the third proximal bearing has a distal side axially abutting a proximal side of the first proximal bearing, and the first dust seal axially abuts a proximal side of the third proximal bearing, such that the first proximal bearing and the third proximal bearing are axially fixed between the first dust seal and the first distal abutment surface. In this configuration, the second proximal bearing has a distal side operably engaged with the second distal abutment surface, the fourth proximal bearing has a distal side axially abutting a proximal side of the second proximal bearing, and the second dust seal axially abuts a proximal side of the fourth proximal bearing, such that the second proximal bearing and the fourth proximal bearing are axially fixed between the second dust seal and the second distal abutment surface. In this configuration, the first sleeve assembly may further include a first washer axially abutting the first distal abutment surface, such that the distal side of the first proximal bearing axially abuts the first washer, and the second sleeve assembly may further include a second washer axially abutting the second distal abutment surface, such that the distal side of the second proximal bearing axially abuts the second washer.

According to another aspect, the first roller bodies and the second roller bodies are needle roller bodies.

According to a further aspect, the first seal holder and the second seal holder are formed of a resilient material, and the first and second seal holders are press fit within the first and second sections of the first and second axial bores, respectively.

According to yet another aspect, the first seal holder has a first recess on a distal end thereof and a first flange extending distally from the first seal holder and radially around the first recess, where the first dust seal is connected to the first seal holder within the first recess, and the second seal holder has a second recess on a distal end thereof and a second flange extending distally from the second seal holder and radially around the second recess, where the second dust seal is connected to the second seal holder within the second recess.

Other aspects of the disclosure relate to a method of assembling a barbell and/or connecting a barbell sleeve assembly to a bar, as disclosed herein.

Other features and advantages of the disclosure will be apparent from the following description taken in conjunction with the attached drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

To allow for a more full understanding of the present disclosure, it will now be described by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1 is a plan view of one embodiment of a barbell according to aspects of the disclosure;

FIG. 2 is a plan view of the barbell of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a magnified view of the area designated by “3” in FIG. 2;

FIG. 4 is a cross-section view taken along lines 4-4 of FIG. 3;

FIG. 5 is a magnified view of a portion of the barbell of FIG. 4;

FIG. 6 is a magnified view of another portion of the barbell of FIG. 4;

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a retaining ring assembly of the barbell of FIG. 1;

FIG. 8 is a cross-section view of a bearing of the barbell taken along lines 8-8 of FIG. 5; and

FIG. 9 is an exploded view of a sleeve assembly of the barbell of FIG. 1.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

While this invention is susceptible of embodiments in many different forms, there are shown in the drawings and will herein be described in detail example embodiments of the invention with the understanding that the present disclosure is to be considered as an exemplification of the principles of the invention and is not intended to limit the broad aspect of the invention to the embodiments illustrated. In the following description of various example structures according to the invention, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part hereof, and in which are shown by way of illustration various example devices, systems, and environments in which aspects of the invention may be practiced. It is to be understood that other specific arrangements of parts, example devices, systems, and environments may be utilized and structural and functional modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention.

General aspects of the present disclosure relate to a barbell that includes structures for connecting a barbell sleeve assembly 30 to a bar 12. FIGS. 1-9 illustrate one example embodiment of a barbell 10 according to aspects of the disclosure, as well as components thereof. The barbell 10 in FIGS. 1-9 includes the bar or bar member 12 having two opposed end portions 14, 16 with first and second sleeve assemblies 30 positioned at the opposed end portions 14, 16 of the bar 12. The sleeve assemblies 30 each include a sleeve or sleeve member 31 having an axial bore 35 and a connection assembly 50 that connects the bar 12 to the sleeve assemblies 30. As used in this application: the term “axial” refers to the direction along the elongated length of the bar 12 (i.e., between the two ends 14, 16) and/or the bore 35 of each sleeve 31; the term “radial” refers to any direction perpendicular to the axial direction, e.g., along any radius of a cross-section of the bar 12 taken perpendicular to the axial direction; and the terms “proximal” and “distal” are relative terms referring to structures located toward the center of the bar 12 (proximal) or toward the ends 14, 16 of the bar 12 (distal), respectively, in the axial direction. These terms are intended for illustrative purposes only and do not limit the embodiments in any way. It is understood that the bar 12 may not have a straight cylindrical shape with a straight linear axis in some embodiments. In such an embodiment, the “axial” direction may be defined between the end portions 14, 16 and/or with reference to the bore 35 of the respective sleeve 31.

In certain embodiments, the sleeve 31 may be configured to hold one or more weights (not shown), such as weight plates having a center hole configured to receive a portion of the sleeve 31 therethrough. Removable barbell collars or other retaining devices may also be mounted on the sleeve assemblies 30 to hold the weight(s) in place. In other embodiments, the sleeve 31 may be connected to other functional structures, and may or may not be configured for holding one or more weights in such embodiments.

The bar 12 has end portions 14, 16 that are connected to the sleeve assemblies 30 and are received within the sleeves 31 of the sleeve assemblies 30 as described in greater detail herein, and a center portion 18 extending between the end portions 14, 16. The bar 12 may have a circular outer periphery and a constant diameter over substantially the entire length thereof in one embodiment, but variations in the diameter and/or the peripheral shape of the bar 12 may be present in other embodiments. The end portions 14, 16 of the bar 12 may have recesses or slots 29 for engagement with components of the connection assembly 50. The bar 12 in FIGS. 1-9 has an annular slot 29 having a reduced diameter at each end portion 14, 16 for this purpose, with a head portion 28 having a larger diameter than the annular slot 29 defined between the annular slot 29 and the end of the bar 12. The center portion 18 of the bar 12 may further include structures to enhance gripping of the bar 12, such as knurling (not shown), and the bar 12 may be configured with or without knurling at the centermost portion of the bar 12. The end portions 14, 16 of the bar 12 in one embodiment have smooth outer surfaces to reduce friction on the outer surface. The bar 12 is generally formed of metal, and in the embodiment of FIGS. 1-9, the bar 12 is formed of a single piece of steel (e.g., stainless steel). While the bar 12 is illustrated as a straight cylindrical member, it is understood that portions of the bar 12 may not be straight and/or cylindrical. For example, the center portion 18 of the bar 12 may include curves or bends or more complicated gripping structure, such as for use as a curl bar, a tricep bar, a deadlift bar, etc.

Each of the sleeve assemblies 30 in the embodiment of FIGS. 1-9 includes a sleeve 31 having an axial bore 35 defined by an inner surface 36, with proximal and distal openings 32, 33, and a removable end cap 34 configured to cover the distal opening 33 of the sleeve 30. The bore 35 of each sleeve 31 is configured to receive one of the end portions 14, 16 of the bar 12 therein, such that the end portions 14, 16 enter the bore 35 of the respective sleeve 31 through the proximal opening 32. Each sleeve assembly 30 may also include a collar 46 at the proximal end of each sleeve assembly 30, which has a larger width/diameter than the outer surface of the sleeve 31, so the collar 46 can act as a stop to prevent any weights mounted on the sleeve 31 from sliding off of the sleeve 31 and onto the bar 12. The collar may be integrally connected to the sleeve 31 and provided as a single piece with the sleeve 31, or separately connected to the sleeve 31, such that the sleeve 31 and the collar 46 rotate together as a unitary structure with respect to the bar 12. The sleeve 31 and the collar 46 are generally formed of metal, such as stainless steel. Each bore 35 has a distal portion 40 extending inwardly from the distal opening 33 and a proximal portion 41 extending inwardly from the proximal opening 32. The distal portion 40 and the proximal portion 41 in the embodiment of FIGS. 1-9 have inner diameters that are larger than that of the center portion 44 of the bore 35 located between the distal and proximal portions 40, 41.

The proximal portion 41 of each bore 35 in one embodiment has a first abutment surface 45 and a second abutment surface 47 located in the axially distal direction from the first abutment surface 45, i.e., between the first abutment surface 45 and the center portion 44. Both the first and second abutment surfaces 45, 45 are annular shoulders formed by step changes in the inner diameter of the bore 35 in the embodiment of FIGS. 1-9. The first abutment surface 45 is located within the collar 46 in the embodiment of FIGS. 1-9. The proximal portion 41 of each bore 35 also includes a first or inner section 48 positioned at the proximal end of the proximal portion 41 adjacent to the proximal opening 32 and having larger inner width or diameter than the central portion 44, and a second or outer section 49 positioned at the distal end of the proximal portion 41 adjacent to the center portion 44 and having an inner width or diameter that is smaller than the inner section 48 and larger than the central portion 44, in one embodiment. The outer section 49 in the embodiment of FIGS. 1-9 has a smaller inner diameter than the proximal opening 32, and the inner section 48 in this embodiment has an equal or slightly smaller inner diameter than the proximal opening 32. The shoulder forming the first abutment surface 45 creates a step change in diameter from the inner section 48 to the outer section 49, and the shoulder forming the second abutment surface 47 creates a step change in diameter from the outer section 49 to the center portion 44. The inner section 48 of the distal portion 40 of the bore 35 extends to the proximal opening 32 in this embodiment.

The distal portion 40 of each bore 35 in one embodiment has a first abutment surface 37 and a second abutment surface 38 located in the axially proximal direction from the first abutment surface 37, i.e., between the first abutment surface 37 and the center portion 44. Both the first and second abutment surfaces 37, 38 are annular shoulders formed by step changes in the inner diameter of the bore 35 in the embodiment of FIGS. 1-9. The distal portion 40 of each bore 35 also has an annular groove 38 located between the first abutment surface 37 and the distal opening 33, which receives a C-shaped snap ring 52 as described herein. Each end cap 34 is a plate member, which may be formed of stamped steel, which is connected to the sleeve 31 by threaded connection between the outer diameter of the end cap 34 and a threaded portion 39 of the distal portion 40 of the bore 35. The end cap 34 may be mounted using a different structure in other embodiments, such as by using a retaining member (e.g., a C-ring), an O-ring or similar structure, fasteners (e.g., screws or bolts), etc.

The distal portion 40 of each bore 35 also includes a first or outer section 42 positioned at the distal end of the distal portion 40 adjacent to the distal opening 33 and having larger inner width or diameter than the central portion 44, and a second or inner section 43 positioned at the proximal end of the distal portion 40 adjacent to the central portion 44 and having an inner width or diameter that is smaller than the outer section 42 and larger than the central portion 44, in one embodiment. The inner section 43 in the embodiment of FIGS. 1-9 has a smaller inner diameter than the distal opening 33, and the outer section 42 in this embodiment has an equal or slightly smaller inner diameter than the distal opening 33. The inner surface 36 of the bore 35 may be flared at the distal opening 33 to create a larger diameter. The shoulder forming the first abutment surface 37 creates a step change in diameter from the outer section 42 to the inner section 43, and the shoulder forming the second abutment surface 38 creates a step change in diameter from the inner section 43 to the center portion 44. The outer section 42 of the distal portion 40 of the bore 35 extends to the distal opening 33 in this embodiment.

The barbell 10 includes two connection assemblies 50 that connect each sleeve assembly 30 to one of the end portions 14, 16 of the bar 12. Each connection assembly 50 includes a retaining ring assembly 51 received in the outer section 42 of the distal bore portion 40 and a C-shaped snap ring 52 or other retaining member for holding the retaining ring assembly 51 within the bore 35. The retaining ring assembly 51 is illustrated in FIGS. 4, 6, 7, and 9 and includes a proximal washer 53, a distal washer 54, and a central washer 55 located between the proximal washer 53 and the distal washer 54. The central washer 55 and the proximal washer 53 are illustrated together in FIG. 7. The distal washer 54 is a flat washer in this embodiment. The proximal washer 53 abuts the first abutment surface 37 and extends around the end portion 14, 16 of the bar 12. The central washer 55 is received in the annular slot 29 and extends around the annular slot 29, and abuts the outer surface of the proximal washer 53. The central washer 55 is in the form of a split ring that includes two split ring pieces 56 that each forms an arc of approximately 180°, to enable the central washer 55 to pass by the larger-diameter head portion 28 of the bar 12 and to be positioned within the slot 29. The central washer 55 may be a different type of variable-diameter washer in another embodiment, such as a C-shaped retaining ring. The proximal washer 53 is in the form of a cup-shaped washer that has an annular flange 57 extending inward around the distal end of the proximal washer 53 to form a cavity 58. The proximal washer 53 extends around the outside of the central washer 55 and between the central washer 55 and the inner surface 36 of the bore 35 to radially hold the split ring pieces 56 within the slot 29. The distal end of the proximal washer 53 axially abuts the distal washer 54, and the flange 57 axially abuts the central washer 55. In this configuration, the central washer 55 is received within the cavity 58 of the proximal washer 53 and is radially and axially restrained by the combination of the proximal washer 53 and the distal washer 54. It is understood that the proximal washer 53 may be provided as two pieces, i.e., a first piece with a larger inner diameter to extend radially around the central washer 55 and a second piece with a smaller inner diameter to axially abut the central washer 55. The snap ring 52 is received in the annular groove 38 in the outer section 42 of the distal portion 40 of the bore 35 and axially abuts the distal end of the distal washer 54 to retain the distal washer 54 (and the entire retaining ring assembly 51) within the bore 35.

In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1-9, the axial engagement between the central washer 55 and the surfaces of the slot 29, between the distal washer 54 and the snap ring 52, and between the proximal washer 53 and the first abutment surface 37 axially fixes the sleeve assembly 30 with respect to the end portion 14, 16 of the bar 12. Additionally, the radial engagement between the inner surface 36 of the bore 35 and the retaining ring assembly 51 and the end portion 14, 16 of the bar 12 radially fixes the sleeve assembly 30 with respect to the end portion 14, 16 of the bar 12. The sleeve 31 is not rotationally fixed with respect to the bar 12, which permits the sleeve 31 to rotate freely with respect to the bar 12.

The barbell 10 may include various rotation-assisting structures, such as bushings, bearings (including ball bearings, roller/needle bearings, etc.), and/or other structures that directly or indirectly engage the sleeve 31 and the bar 12 to assist smooth rotation of the sleeve 31 with respect to the bar 12. In various embodiments, the barbell 10 may include one or more rotation-assisting structures at the proximal end of the sleeve 31 and/or at the distal end of the sleeve 31. The barbell 10 in one embodiment includes at least one proximal bearing 60 located near the proximal opening 32 of the bore 35 and at least one distal bearing 62 located near the distal opening 32 of the bore 35. In the embodiment of FIGS. 1-9, the barbell 10 includes two proximal bearings 60 positioned in the proximal portion 41 of the bore 35 and one distal bearing 62 positioned in the distal portion 40 of the bore 35, in each of the two sleeves 31. Each of the proximal and distal bearings 60, 62 directly engages the inner surface 36 of the sleeve 31 and the outer surface of the bar 12 in this configuration, but it is understood that intermediate structures (e.g., spacers) may be used between the bearings 60, 62 and the bar 12 and/or the sleeve 31. Each of the proximal and distal bearings 60, 62 in this embodiment is a roller bearing having an inner race 63 engaged with the bar 12, an outer race 64 engaged with the inner surface 36 of the sleeve 31, and a plurality of roller bodies 65 between the inner and outer races 63, 64. The bearings 60, 62 may also include spacer bodies 68 between the roller bodies 65 between the inner and outer races 63, 64 as well. An example of the internal structure of one of the bearings 60, 62 is shown in FIG. 8. The bearings 60, 62 in one embodiment have a machined inner race 63, and may also have a machined outer race 64. The roller bodies 65 in this embodiment are in the form of needle rollers or other elongated rollers. In another embodiment, the bearings 60, 62 may be ball bearings, such that the roller bodies 65 are in the form of rolling balls (which may include two or more rolling balls side-by-side in place of each needle roller).

The proximal bearings 60 in the barbell 10 of FIGS. 1-9 are positioned side-by-side in the outer section 49 of the proximal portion 41 of the bore 35. In this position, the axially outermost proximal bearing 60 has a distal side that axially abuts a spacer in the form of a flat washer 66 that abuts the second abutment surface 47, and a proximal side that axially abuts the other proximal bearing 60. In other embodiments, the axially outermost proximal bearing 60 may directly abut the second abutment surface 47, or a different type of spacer (in addition to or instead of the washer 66) may be used. Additionally, in this position, the axially innermost proximal bearing 60 has a distal side that axially abuts the other proximal bearing 60, and a proximal side that axially abuts a seal holder 70. It is understood that various spacers located between the proximal bearings 60 and/or between the axially innermost proximal bearing 60 and the seal holder 70 may be used in other embodiments. In further embodiments, a different number of proximal bearings 60 may be used, which may be arranged side-by-side or in another configuration, and the length of the outer section 49 and the position of the second abutment surface 47 may be adjusted accordingly to accommodate the structure of the proximal bearing(s) 60. For example, the barbell 10 may include a single proximal bearing 60 in another embodiment.

The distal bearing 62 in the embodiment of FIGS. 1-9 is positioned in the inner section 43 of the distal portion 40 of the bore 35. In this position, the distal bearing 62 has a proximal side that axially abuts a spacer in the form of a flat washer 67 that abuts the second abutment surface 38, and a distal side that axially abuts the proximal washer 53 of the retaining ring assembly 51. It is understood that various spacers may be located between the distal bearing 62 and the retaining ring assembly 51, or between multiple distal bearings 62 (if present), in other embodiments. In further embodiments, a different number of distal bearings 62 may be used, which may be arranged side-by-side or in another configuration, and the length of the inner section 43 and the position of the second abutment surface 38 may be adjusted accordingly to accommodate the structure of the distal bearing(s) 62. For example, the barbell 10 may include a two distal bearings 62 side-by-side in another embodiment.

The barbell 10 in one embodiment may also include a dust seal 69 at or near the proximal end of each sleeve 31, as well as a seal holder or inner end cap 70 that holds the dust seal 69 in place and also functions as an inner end cap. The seal holder 70 is inserted into the proximal opening 32 to close the proximal opening 32, and abuts the innermost proximal bearing 60 to hold the proximal bearings 60 in place. The seal holder 70 may be fixed in position within the proximal opening 32, such as by press-fitting the outer surface of the seal holder 70 with the inner surface 36 of the bore 35. The seal holder 70 may be formed of a resilient material (e.g., a high-strength polymer or composite/FRP) to assist with press-fitting. In the embodiment of FIGS. 1-9, the seal holder 70 is received in the inner section 48 of the proximal portion 41 of the bore 35 and may be inserted sufficiently far to abut the first abutment surface 45. In this embodiment, the seal holder 70 also has a recess 71 on the distal end thereof and a flange 72 that extends distally from the seal holder 70 and radially around the recess 71, with a passage 73 that extends through the seal holder 70. The proximal end of the seal holder 70 may be flat. The dust seal 69 is positioned at the distal end of the seal holder 70 and functions to seal the proximal opening 32 against ingress of dust that may migrate between the seal holder 70 and the bar 12. In the embodiment of FIGS. 1-9, the dust seal 69 is received within the recess 71 of the seal holder 70, such that the flange 72 extends radially around the dust seal 69. In another embodiment, the barbell 10 may not include a dust seal 69, and the seal holder 70 may instead be configured to function only as an inner end cap.

The method of assembling the barbell 10 includes first inserting the flat washer 66, the two proximal bearings 60, the dust seal 69, and the seal holder 70 into the proximal opening 32. The end portion 14, 16 of the bar 12 is then inserted into the proximal opening 32 of the bore 35 and through the bore 35 until the distal end 24 of the bar 12 extends into the distal portion 40 of the bore 35. During insertion, the end portion 14, 16 of the bar 12 passes through the passage 73 of the seal holder 70 and through the dust seal 69, the inner races 63 of the proximal bearings 60, and the flat washer 66. The flat washer 67 and the distal bearing 62 are then inserted through the distal opening 33 over the end portion 14, 16 of the bar 12 until the flat washer 67 abuts the second abutment surface 38. The proximal washer 53 is then inserted through the distal opening 33 over the end portion 14, 16 of the bar 12 to abut the distal bearing 62 and the first abutment surface 37, and the central washer 55 is inserted into the slot 29 of the bar 12 by inserting the split ring pieces 56 through the distal opening 33 and into the slot 29. In this position, the proximal washer 53 extends around the central washer 55. The distal washer 54 is then inserted through the distal opening 33 to abut the proximal washer 53, and the snap ring 52 is inserted into the annular groove 38. The snap ring 52 thereby holds the retaining ring assembly 51 in the bore 35 and connects the sleeve assembly 30 to the bar 12. The cap 34 is then inserted into the distal opening 32 and connected to the sleeve 31 by threading. The same method is repeated for mounting the other sleeve assembly 30 to the opposite end portion 14, 16 of the bar 12. Removing the sleeve assemblies 30 is accomplished by performing the method in the reverse order.

Various embodiments of barbells, barbell sleeve assemblies, and connection or retaining assemblies for the same have been described herein, which include various components and features. In other embodiments, the barbells, barbell sleeve assemblies, and retaining assemblies may be provided with any combination of such components and features. It is also understood that in other embodiments, the various devices, components, and features of the barbells, barbell sleeve assemblies, and connection or retaining assemblies described herein may be constructed with similar structural and functional elements having different configurations, including different ornamental appearances.

The barbells, barbell sleeve assemblies, and connection assemblies disclosed herein provide numerous benefits and advantages over existing structures. For example, the connecting structures and rotation-assisting features disclosed herein permit simple and secure connection of a sleeve assembly to a bar, with a durable structure and reliable, smooth rotation of the sleeve with respect to the bar. This connection structure also avoids rattling or loose components within the sleeve assembly and floating of the sleeve. As another example, the use of the dust seal and the structures at the proximal end of the sleeve resist ingress of dust that may interfere with function, e.g., the free and smooth rotation of the sleeve. As a further example, the connecting and sealing structures at the proximal and distal ends provide containment of grease to further assist with smooth and free rotation of the sleeve. Further benefits and advantages are recognizable to those skilled in the art.

Several alternative embodiments and examples have been described and illustrated herein. A person of ordinary skill in the art would appreciate the features of the individual embodiments, and the possible combinations and variations of the components. A person of ordinary skill in the art would further appreciate that any of the embodiments could be provided in any combination with the other embodiments disclosed herein. It is understood that the invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from the spirit or central characteristics thereof. The present examples and embodiments, therefore, are to be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive, and the invention is not to be limited to the details given herein. The terms “top,” “bottom,” “front,” “back,” “side,” “rear,” “proximal,” “distal,” and the like, as used herein, are intended for illustrative purposes only and do not limit the embodiments in any way. Nothing in this specification should be construed as requiring a specific three dimensional orientation of structures in order to fall within the scope of this invention, unless explicitly specified by the claims. When used in description of a method or process, the term “providing” (or variations thereof) as used herein means generally making an article available for further actions, and does not imply that the entity “providing” the article manufactured, assembled, or otherwise produced the article. The term “approximately” as used herein implies a variation of up to 10% of the nominal value modified by such term, or up to 10% of a midpoint value of a range modified by such term. “Integral joining technique,” as used herein, means a technique for joining two pieces so that the two pieces effectively become a single, integral piece, including, but not limited to, irreversible joining techniques such as welding, brazing, soldering, or the like, where separation of the joined pieces cannot be accomplished without structural damage thereto. Additionally, the term “plurality,” as used herein, indicates any number greater than one, either disjunctively or conjunctively, as necessary, up to an infinite number. Accordingly, while the specific embodiments have been illustrated and described, numerous modifications come to mind without significantly departing from the spirit of the invention and the scope of protection is only limited by the scope of the accompanying claims.